Two newly-constructed train stations in Melbourne’s north will reopen in the coming weeks, following the removal of four level-crossings in Preston.
The newly constructed Bell and Preston stations will once again host commuters from 5 September after four level crossings, including those in Bell St and Reservoir, were removed in a bid to reduce congestion and improve safety.
Services at both stations have been diverted since May 2022 to facilitate the months-long construction effort.
Passengers can expect new comfortable waiting rooms, undercover seats and improved lighting.
Once opened, both lifts and stairs will be operational at Preston station, however lift access will not be available to handicapped passengers at Bell station until late September.
As the gateway to Preston’s shopping district, the design of Preston Station incorporates the liveliness of the area, with the bright coloured façade echoing the vivid array of produce that can be found at Preston Market.
At Bell Station, the external wall patterns reflect Preston’s rich history with references to post-war rooftops and the local art and culture scene.
The new stations will have 194 solar panels across the two stations, the equivalent of taking around 780 cars off the road each year.
Victoria’s Minister for Transport Infrastructure, Jacinta Allan, said the project would improve travel times and community safety for the region.
“The countdown is on to open the brand-new Preston and Bell stations, creating safer and more direct links between public transport, local shops and parking,” Ms Allan said.
“We’ve transformed the way people in Preston move around and slashed travel times with the removal of four level crossings including Bell Street – the most dangerous and congested level crossing in Melbourne.”
Over the coming months, work will begin on building three MCGs of new open space under the rail line in Preston featuring play and exercise areas and gathering spaces. Works are expected to be completed next year.
The open space will include landscaped areas with more than 700 trees and around 150,000 plants, and a shared walking and cycling path to connect the new Preston and Bell stations. The landscaping work will be completed by Wamarra, an Indigenous owned and operated civil contractor.
